A video of a person driving recklessly in the Kruger National Park has emerged on social media.
The video shows the driver crossing rivers and driving on closed roads in a protected area managed by SanParks.
SanParks has responded to the video, stating that the behaviour shows a blatant disregard for conservation regulations, public safety, environmental protection measures and the authority of park management.
“The organisation wishes to make it plainly clear that conduct of this nature will not be tolerated and will be dealt with the seriousness it deserves.”
Rules to preserve protected areas
All protected areas are governed by the National Environmental Management Act (Nema) and the National Environmental Management: Protected Areas Act. These laws prohibit all activities that may harm biodiversity or damage ecosystems. Furthermore, they prohibit activities that threaten public safety or undermine the integrity of conservation areas.
Failure to comply with these provisions constitutes a serious offence. It may result in criminal prosecution, substantial fines, imprisonment, civil liability for damages caused and administrative sanctions.
SanParks is actively trying to trace the individual in question, and once identified, they will be held accountable.
“We are looking for this individual, and he will face the music,” SanParks.
